Post by : Rameen Ariff

Hyderabad: A devastating bus fire in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, resulted in the loss of 19 lives early Friday morning. Recent investigations indicate that a shipment of 234 smartphones valued at Rs 46 lakh significantly exacerbated the tragedy. These smartphones, being transported within the bus, are believed to have played a critical role in the fire's ferocity.

This shipment was dispatched by Manganath, a businessman from Hyderabad, destined for e-commerce giant Flipkart in Bengaluru, from where customers would receive their orders. Forensic experts reported that the batteries of the smartphones exploded during the incident, intensifying the flames and complicating rescue operations. Eyewitnesses recounted hearing multiple explosions as the fire overtook the bus.

According to P Venkataraman, Director-General of Andhra Pradesh Fire Services, the fire likely ignited in the bus's front section due to a fuel leak. A motorbike trapped beneath the vehicle led to petrol spillage, which quickly ignited, causing the flames to spread rapidly. The bus's aluminium build, intended to enhance speed and reduce weight, melted under the extreme heat, contributing to the destruction.

Venkataraman described the horrific aftermath, stating, “We witnessed bones and ash falling through the melted sheets,” illustrating the tragedy’s scale. He further indicated that the electrical batteries from the bus's air conditioning system added fuel to the fire.

This horrifying event highlights the risks associated with transporting combustible materials like smartphones on public transport, prompting critical questions regarding road safety regulations in Andhra Pradesh. The bus fire, intensified by the smartphone shipment, has plunged families and the surrounding community into mourning over the lives lost in this tragic, preventable event.

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